EX-PRESS Filtration Device from Alcon Better Than Trabeculectomy?

Alcon’s EX-PRESS® Glaucoma Filtration Device, a miniature stainless-steel glaucoma shunt developed as an alternative to trabeculectomy filtration surgery for patients with glaucoma, was initially cleared by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on March 26, 2002.

After an additional two years added to the original three year study, the EX-PRESS (Alcon) showed significantly better results than trabeculectomy- lower IOP (about1.5 mmHg), and requiring fewer meds and later interventions like needling. The results were not dramatic, but certainly not insignificant. I like the EX-PRESS since I can avoid the iridectomy. I think I will use it more often.